New Host of IRB Junior World Rugby Trophy

Dublin – Ireland, May 01, 2013: The International Rugby Board has announced that, owing to factors outside of its control, it has been forced to change the host city for the IRB Junior World Rugby Trophy 2013 in Chile.

The Rugby-loving city of Temuco will now replace Antofagasta after the city confirmed to the IRB this week that it was no longer in a position to host the key developmental event that brings together the finest players at Under 20 level from eight nations.

Tournament organiser La Federación de Rugby de Chile (FERUCHI) and the IRB are confident that Temuco will deliver a spectacular and hugely successful event that will further the development of Rugby in the country.

Temuco welcomed a large crowd last weekend when Chile defeated Brazil 38-22 in a Rugby World Cup 2015 qualifier that forms part of the South American Championship 2013.

The match days of the IRB Junior World Rugby Trophy will be May 28, June 1, 5 and 9, while fixtures also remain unchanged for a tournament that features hosts Chile, Canada, Japan, Italy, Namibia, Portugal, Tonga and Uruguay.

IRB Tournament Director Santiago Ramallo said: “It is disappointing that we have been forced to switch venues owing to factors outside of our control. However, we have secured a great venue and superb facilities for the teams in a city and region that is passionate about Rugby.”

“On behalf of the IRB I would like to extend my gratitude to the Temuco authorities and FERUCHI for their desire and commitment to delivering an outstanding event. I’d also like to thank the Rugby community in Antofagasta for their tireless work up to this point.”

“With 28 days to go until kick-off planning and preparation remains on track and I am sure that the people of Temuco will embrace what is set to be a compelling and highly-competitive event.”

Antofagasta was originally selected to host the prestigious event following a rigorous selection process and the event hosting came with the full backing of the city authorities.

However, the city confirmed to the IRB that it would pull out of hosting the Trophy following a decision by city officials.

The International Rugby Board invests heavily in the IRB Junior World Rugby Trophy and IRB Junior World Championship every year as part of its strategy to develop the future stars of world Rugby and provide high performance pathway structures for players at the Under 20 level.